Process can drain NFL Draft prospects

Jaguars recall their experiences leading up to the big day

This is a 2010 photo of Marcedes Lewis of the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL football team. This image reflects the Jacksonville Jaguars active roster as of Tuesday, June 15, 2010 when this image was taken. (AP Photo)

Jaguars tight end Marcedes Lewis still remembers how mentally taxing the draft process was for him eight years later.

Lewis’ road as a prospect ended nicely when he was selected with the 28th overall pick in the 2006 draft. Lewis had competed in the Senior Bowl, NFL Scouting Combine and gone through several private workouts in the months leading up to the draft.

“It’s the unknown,” Lewis said. “You don’t know what’s going to happen. You’re trying to get yourself prepared for what could happen. You’re so geeked up the whole time. There’s so much anxiety running through your body.”

Lewis says the pressure doesn’t stop for any player the following offseason after his rookie year. There’s always fierce competition to maintain your place on the roster.

Still, for last year’s Jaguars draft class, the last few months have been much more enjoyable than the start of 2013. While they realize the opportunity to be a top draft prospect is special, it’s also stressful.

“Last year, I spent about six weeks just training for the combine,” said left tackle Luke Joeckel, the second-overall pick in 2013. “That’s not football. It’s not a total waste of time. You’re still getting bigger, faster and stronger. Now this year, I’m working on football technique as well as getting bigger and stronger for football. I have an offense, I’m watching film, and it’s definitely a huge plus. Last year, I was sitting around waiting.”

Strong safety Johnathan Cyprien, the team’s second-round selection, said his main focus last offseason was running a great 40-yard dash time and timing well in the shuttle drills. Travel also is a major drawback for prospects as they try to stay in peak shape.

“You’re traveling to meet different teams and that keeps you from working out,” Cyprien said.

The Jaguars’ second-year players also can now focus on a specific training regimen. Cyprien has gained muscle mass from last season. He says that’s part of Jaguars strength and conditioning coordinator Tom Myslinski’s plan.

“He wants to blow our bodies up right now and then lean us out as the season comes closer,” Cyprien said. “So it’s a process. I’m bigger than I probably will be in the season, but I’ll be big enough during the season. Trust me.”

Cornerback Dwayne Gratz, the team’s third-round choice, feels more at ease knowing where his future years will be spent. He also says the physical break has helped him and will pay dividends in the fall.

“My body is getting a rest and getting a chance to recover,” Gratz said. “I think that will lead to an impressive season for all of us that were rookies. Now, I focus on what I need to do to get better for this team.”

Cyprien says he’s been happy to offer advice to prospects going through the draft process. It’s the same advice he was given.

“It’s grueling, and you’ll think ‘Man, I have to get on another flight,’ ” Cyprien said. “Remember, it’s a blessing to be in that position. So take it in and think of it in a positive way.”

It’s just a position they are glad they won’t have to be in again. At least they didn’t have the extra two weeks of the process like the current class will have end this week, starting with Thursday’s first round.

“It’s come up,” Cyprien said. “It’s been kind of funny for us to look back and know we were just there in that position last year.”

Blake Bortles. not exciting pick. He is a over rated. Should have picked Johnny football. I challenge all doubters to compare year end stats and success between the 2. Jags too boring and conservative. I feel we just picked another Blane gabbert. I will not buy season tickets. Another bad pick. Shad Failed Jacksonville. He needs to focus on real American football. The nfl. Forget soccer. What a disappointment.

If we pick Sammy Watkins I happy. If we pick Manzel I will buy season tickets again. Get it????????? Please. No more linemane, linebackers ects...... Recruit excitement. The jags have been so boring. Yawn. Johnny football will excite the city and fan base.